The best pubs in Sussex

Updated on:
Best pubs in

The Noah’s Ark

The Noah’s Ark in Lurgashall is a bewitching 16th century pub located just a stone’s throw from Blackdown Hill on the borders of Surrey and West Sussex. Step inside to find a wonderful mix of old meets new – ancient fireplaces and low beams, alongside comfy leather sofas and contemporary design features.

The Fox

The Fox Goes Free is an alluring country pub in the quaint village of Charlton, West Sussex. The pub is 400 years old & full of oak beams, flint walls and open fireplaces. In warmer days, a pleasant afternoon can be spent in their large country garden overlooking the South Downs and nearby Goodwood Estate.

The Half Moon

The Half Moon Inn is a great country pub serving proper pub fayre in the little village of Kirdford. The pretty seating area out the front is the ideal setting for an evening meal in the sun and the large back garden is well suited for families and is also a great space for events. The food is of the highest quality and sourced locally from the surrounding farms.

The White Hart

The White Hart in Netherfield provides quality pub food in a relaxing environment. The pub is a family run free-house and restaurant run by ​Ron and Mel Birchall and offers a modern, locally sourced menu.

Duke of Cumberland

Nestling on the side of a steep hill in Henley near Fernhurst, is the picturesque Duke of Cumberland Arms. It dates back to the 16th century and benefits from breath-taking views and a delightful garden with ponds. Inside savour the old flagstones, rustic décor and local ales served straight from the barrel.

The Horse Guards

The Horse Guards Inn is located in the sleepy village of Tillington in the South Downs National Park, a few miles from Petworth. Filled with character, this 350-year-old pub is a great place to visit all year round. The vast, hidden garden is a picturesque haven of wild flowers and a great spot to catch the sun.

The Lickfold Inn

The Lickfold Inn near Petworth specialises in exceptional food, from bar snacks to contemporary fine dining. There is a busy restaurant on the first floor, and a more traditional pub atmosphere on the ground floor plus a large garden out back.

The Griffin

Situated in the historic village of Fletching, The Griffin has been run by the Pullan family since 1979. During that time, The Griffin has built a considerable reputation for its food and wine. People come from far and wide to sample their cuisine.

The Blacksmiths

The Blacksmiths is an award-winning pub in Donnington near Chichester. With its cosy wood fires, extensive garden and fine cuisine, a passion for local food is at the heart of every plate. The kitchen team also use high quality ingredients from their own garden and farm.

Coach & Horses

If you are one for good food in a traditional country setting then the Coach and Horses in Danehill is sure to fulfil your expectations. Situated on the edge of the Ashdown Forest and hidden down a country lane, the location is peaceful and rural and from a large garden you’ll enjoy views of the Sussex Downs.

The Mermaid Inn

The Mermaid Inn is situated in the beautiful town of Rye, on a fantastic cobbled street full of history. The Inn has maintained the essence of true English charm for over 800 years and still has original features including a cellar dating back to 1156.

The Earl of March

The Earl of March is a delightful gastropub located in the village of Lavant, near Chichester in West Sussex. Giles Thompson, the former Executive Head Chef at the Ritz Hotel London, took over the pub in 2007. The pub dates back to the early 18th century and the decor is modern yet rustic.

Globe Inn

A stones throw from the coast and a short stroll from Rye’s town centre is the eclectic Globe Inn Marsh. A fantastic mish-mash of cosy fireplaces, unusual objects and stylish furnishings. As you walk through the door you’ll see a fine selection of nibbles and artisan breads ready for dipping in stews and soups.

The Cat Inn

The Cat Inn, West Hoathly, is a 16th century free house with four bedrooms. The village is a haven for walkers, ideally placed on the Western edge of the Ashdown Forest and the surrounding area is blessed with a plethora of attractive places to visit.

The Tiger Inn

Set in the heart of picturesque East Dean, the Tiger Inn is a great 16th century pub to stop off at after a walk along the Seven Sisters. The Tiger Inn offers local real ales including Beachy Head which is brewed within walking distance of the pub.

The Crown Inn

The Crown is an independent pub in Hastings old town between East Hill country park and the beach. It offers a welcoming environment with friendly staff and plenty of local regulars. They serve Hastings brewed real ale and a delicious selection of home cooked meals.

The Angel Inn

The Angel Inn is a superb local pub close to Golden Square in the historic market town of Petworth. This lovely little pub has been serving locals and visitors since medieval times. Look out for the bar featuring ships beams, wooden floors and stone walls. There are six bedrooms for those who want to stay.

The Achor Bleu

The Anchor Bleu in Bosham is located on the water’s edge with glorious views overlooking the boats and harbour. The locally sourced menu features a mix of pub classics and seasonal specials with three cosy rooms to dine in and a waterside terrace to enjoy when the weather is fine.

The Star Inn

The Star Inn is a friendly pub with bags of character. Heavy beams, knotty wood floors and great open fireplaces, add to the atmosphere. Set in the quiet village of Waldron, this pub offers a great choice of food and a fine selection of real ales, beers and cider.

The Standard Inn

The Standard Inn, Rye is situated in the heart of the citadel. The pub has been recently restored to its 15th century glory, with beautifully carved beams and open fires. The menu is fish led with dishes such as ‘Rye bay king scallops, five spice pork belly and celeriac puree’.
On the outskirts of Uckfield, Blackboys Inn is a stunning 14th Century public house with large gardens. In summer it’s a great place to sip your favourite tipple, while watching the pub ducks chase each other around the pretty gardens. Blackboys also has large fireplaces – terrific on those colder nights.

The Halfway Bridge

The Halfway Bridge is a charming 17th century coaching inn in the lovely village of Lodsworth. It’s brimming with character from the period beams and open fires, to the beer stools crafted from old whiskey barrels. You’ll find light snacks and over 50 carefully selected wines and champagnes to choose from.

The Crown Inn

In the small country hamlet of Dial Post sits The Crown Inn. This charming pub is a welcome resting stop for travellers and locals to the area, boasting a warm rustic atmosphere and great food. Head chef James has built an impressive reputation for sophisticated locally sourced dishes.

The Lion & Lobster

The Lion & Lobster is one of the oldest and best-loved pubs in Brighton. You’ll relish the atmosphere here, from the cheerful bright pink exterior to the eclectic style inside. Set in a quiet street, not far from the seafront, this pub spans three floors with a hidden terrace and regency restaurant.

The Palmeira

The Palmeira is a fantastic modern pub close to Palmeira Square, famed for its Regency architecture. The Palmeira provides a great local meeting spot for the surrounding area, full of friendly people of all ages. The large, open layout creates a spacious environment, perfect for a big gathering or quiet pint.

The Salehurst Halt

The Salehurst Halt is a delightful pub tucked alongside the church in Robertsbridge. It’s the kind of place that epitomises all that a country pub should be, offering a relaxed environment within the surroundings of East Sussex. The idyllic setting affords great views over the Rother Valley.

The Shepherd & Dog

A charismatic pub in a tranquil location. The Shepherd and Dog is a haven of real ale and hearty food. Dating back to the 18th century, this local has built a loyal following who love to come and enjoy the relaxed environment.

The Bell Inn

The Bell Inn is located in the heart of Ticehurst and has recently benefited from an extensive refurbishment, transforming it into a large, impressive and distinctive public house. As well as a bar and restaurant, the pub has eleven high spec rooms to stay in.

The Better Half

The Better Half in Hove is one of the oldest public houses in the area and has recently benefited from an extensive refurbishment. the pub now celebrates ‘the heart and soul’ of British pub culture, providing a relaxed and welcoming environment for casual drinking and fine dining.

The Black Horse

The Black Horse is a 16th Century Inn situated in the Sussex countryside near the popular village of Petworth. With extensive gardens and a cosy interior, you are greeted by roaring log fires and traditional ambience. The menu focuses on local produce and fresh fish due to its access to the South Coast.

The Bolney Stage

The Bolney Stage in the pretty village of Bolney, near Haywards Heath oozes character with huge inglenook fireplaces, ancient flagstones and crooked beams aplenty. Hearty pub classics such as braised shoulder of lamb sit alongside more modern dishes like ‘Sesame pressed spiced duck’.

The Bridge Inn

The Bridge Inn, Amberley is a traditional country pub and kitchen, located in the heart of the South Downs National Park. This cosy, inviting Inn offers classic pub dishes, daily specials and real ales in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Bull

The Bull in Ditchling is one of the oldest buildings in Ditchling village and has been welcoming travellers and locals for over 500 years. Located inside the South Downs National Park, yet the Bull is only 15 minutes from Brighton and the sea.

The Chimney House

The Chimney House is a traditional pub in the heart of Brighton next to the Seven Dials. Ingredients are sourced from within Sussex with fish from Shoreham and Newhaven, fruit and vegetables from local farms and glasshouses and meat from Garlic Wood Farm.

The Crab & Lobster

The Crab and Lobster in Sidlesham, close to Pagham harbour, is a great spot for a short break by the sea. This restaurant with rooms is famous for its locally sourced food including fresh fish straight off the boat at Selsey and of course plenty of crabs and lobsters.

The Cricketers Arms

The Cricketers Arms is set in the splendid village of Wisborough Green, with lovely views overlooking the local village green. The chef has built up a reputation over the last 10 years for classic, good quality, home cooked grub, particularly for his themed food nights on the last Friday of each month.

The Crown & Anchor

The Crown and Anchor at Dell Quay is a waterside, 16th century pub situated at the head of the Fishbourne Channel within Chichester Harbour. The large bay windows and open terrace offer great views of the water making it a fine spot to watch local sailors and sunsets throughout the year.

The Dean Ale

The Dean Ale & Cider house in Chichester is a pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Popular with beer enthusiasts who enjoy the extensive range of well kept real ales plus a great selection of craft beers from around the world. Craft ciders are also a fixture, on hand pump and by the bottle.

The Farm Tavern

The Farm Tavern is an intimate, friendly, quirky and recently refurbished pub in Hove. This Cask Marque accredited pub prides itself on sourcing the highest quality local produce – from its gin, artisan bread to cheese and charcuterie.

The Lamb Inn

The Lamb Inn in Wartling, between Eastbourne and Bexhill, is a traditional country pub with bedrooms. Low beams and plenty of old fireplaces give the pub some great character. On tap they have a good selection of local beers and the menu is full of top quality, local ingredients.

The Fox Inn

The Fox Inn dates back to the early 16th century. The pub offers traditional pub food as well as Chinese dishes such as peanut and coconut curry and sweet and sour pork ribs. The wealth of original features including inglenook fireplaces and oak beams create a warm and enticing environment.

The George and Dragon

The George and Dragon is a small pub located in the idyllic village of Shipley. The pub prides itself on their selection of real ales. Dishes include roast guinea fowl, ham hock and their popular “Dragon Burger”.

The George Inn

The George Inn is an 18th century coaching Inn situated in the charming village of Robertsbridge. They pride themselves on local produce and have an award winning restaurant serving local ales and wines from the region.

The Corner House

The Corner House is a stylish and welcoming pub owned by brothers Tim and Matt Taylor. Cosy and vintage, the Corner House is the ideal place to relax with family and friends. Dishes are classics such as smoked salmon sandwiches, house burgers and classic fish & chips.

The George Payne

The George Payne in Hove was refurbished in 2012, when its new owners Zoe and Steve gave it a complete transformation, winning an award for ‘Best Turnaround Pub in Britain’ along the way. Since then, the pub has become a key meeting place for many local groups and a great community resource.

The Green Man

The Green Man is run by husband and wife team Becky and Nick Illes. Chef Nick has a background working in some of London’s top hotel restaurants and has brought his little black book of specialist suppliers and his passion for sourcing the finest ingredients to the pub.

The Kings Arms

The Kings Arms in Fernhurst is on the road between Midhurst and Haslemere in the gorgeous South Downs. Inside this Grade II listed building, there’s a restaurant and bar as well as six luxurious ensuite bedrooms which are located within a converted stable block.

The Lamb Inn

The Lamb Inn in West Wittering is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and a drink, after visiting the surrounding countryside. The Lamb is rightly proud of the reputation they have for offering fantastic food, ranging from light lunches through to dinners and epic Sunday lunches.

The George

By the locals, for the locals, of the locals – and a very warm welcome to everyone’. The George at Burpham is an award winning village pub that seeks to provide excellent food in a friendly setting. This traditional 17th century pub is a particular favourite among dog walkers and hikers.

The North Laine Pub

The North Laine Pub in Brighton is the home of the Laine Brewing microbrewery, and a great place to join brewers and fans of craft beers enjoying a wide range of different styles of ales and lagers. The spacious layout is full of character, creating a relaxed environment to enjoy your favourite tipple.

The Urchin

The Urchin offers freshly caught shellfish from the Brighton coastline, as well as a wide selection of specialist craft beers. There are over 100 different types of beer to choose from and Brighton Gin is distilled in their cellar.

The Queens Head

The Queens Head is a 14th century, family run pub situated in the heart of the beautiful and idyllic village of Sedlescombe. Low beams and a large fireplace create a homely atmosphere throughout, while the back room showcases some great local art.

The Royal Oak

The Royal Oak in Whatlington, dates back to the 15th century. With a wealth of original features including the large inglenook fireplace, the 80ft indoor well, quirky olde-world interior and private large beer garden, The Royal Oak is the perfect place to meet up with friends and family.

The Stag Inn

The Stag Inn is an enticing and renowned country pub set within the charming village of Balls Cross near Petworth. Log fires welcome you while the candlelit restaurant invites you to sample the culinary delights including dishes like pheasant breast, lambs liver and garlic calamari.

The Three Crowns

The Three Crowns in Wisborough Green is a quaint village Pub, with great food. The owners make the effort to source their ingredients from local farms, butchers and bakers and seek out a variety of local ales. Due to its great reputation the Pub can get very busy, so it’s best to book in advance for food.

The White Horse

The White Horse in Pulborough is a country inn, with history dating back to 1866. The interior decor is simple but cosy, creating an enticing environment in which to sit back and enjoy a pint or two.

The White Lion

The White Lion in Thakeham is an original old coaching inn situated in the heart of this picturesque West Sussex village. The pub has kept many of its traditional features and added new elements of character over the years.

The Windmill Inn

The Windmill Inn of Littleworth first opened its doors in 1909 and is named after Jolesfield Windmill, an eight-sided tarred smock mill that stood in the village until the early 1960s. This charming pub has recently been renovated and is located 20 minutes south of Horsham or 20 minutes north of Worthing.

The Ypres Castle

The Ypres Castle Inn in Rye, is reached via the 1697 Gun Garden steps and has been serving locals since the 1600’s. Dishes include Rye Bay Scallops, Rye Bay Plaice, local crab and John Dory on the seasonal menu. There is a large pub garden with views across Romney Marsh where you can watch the sunset.

The Rising Sun

The Rising Sun in Nutbourne is a delightful village pub close to Pulborough. The comfortable bar area has a great selection of local beers and ales and is an ideal space for events, live music or just putting your feet up by the fire.